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Effects of a Name Change

Going through a name change can be quite an interesting experience. Most commonly, women change their name when they get married. Many different agencies must be notified when a name change occurs, and even close relations may still refer to the person by the incorrect name. It can be a lengthy process, but with some planning it can go smoothly.

  1. Loss of Identity

    • Some people who go through name changes report feeling a loss of identity. This typically happens when people change their first names, but can also happen when a wife takes her husband's name. Name changes can make people question who they really are and how they're defined. In most cultures, people attach a great deal of significance to a name. Upon changing their name, this may cause them to reevaluate character traits and aspects about themselves that they have always presupposed.

    Legal

    • When going through a name change, it is important to make a list of all entities that need to be notified. Among those are the DMV, Social Security, post office and the U.S. Passport Agency. Some places will require you to come in person to complete the name change, while others can accept a phone call or email. It is also important to notify other entities such as your employer, banking institution and insurance company. Once all places are checked off the list, the name change is complete.

    Friends and Family

    • It is important to send correspondence to friends and family with your new name so they will be aware of it. Usually it is customary to send cards and thank you notes after the wedding with the new name, but email has also become an acceptable form of notification. Both methods can be done quickly with very little effort.

    Being Called the Wrong Name

    • Occasionally it does take some people longer than others to get used to a name change. If someone refers to you by your former name, do not get upset. Just politely remind them of your new last name and move on with the conversation. There is no need to become angry over a simple mistake. Sometimes at reunions people remember your former name, and this is okay especially if that person has not seen you in several years.

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